Somerville High School Enroot students visited Akamai last week to learn about careers in technology. Akamai, one of the largest content delivery networks, is based nearby in Cambridge. After a rainy commute to Kendall, students were greeted with cookies, an engaging tour of Akamai’s workplace, and the opportunity to ask questions.

Students spoke with employees about the many varied paths they had taken to work at a technology company. They learned that many Akamai employees had no formal training in computer science at all, but were rather trained in the specificity of Akamai’s work only after joining the team. Akamai employees stressed the value they see in students with problem solving skills and the appreciation they have for diversity, particularly through their many recruitment programs for applicants of minority backgrounds. Students left with reassurance that behind the intimidating computer screens were smiling, welcoming faces and with a sense of confidence that in just a few years they could be right alongside them.

Students listen and take notes as they toured Akamai’s building and spoke with Akamai employees.